The Gray Line Tour: When a teacher dies

Published 12:00 am Tuesday, December 10, 2002

By LEONARD GRAY

This week, two friends of mine died and as it happened, each were teachers. One had been a friend before he became a teacher, as he served St. Charles Parish in the planning and zoning department, and he was unfailingly blunt, honest, gregarious and blessed with a wonderful sense of humor.

The other was a person to whom teaching was a calling. Her humor was matched by her devotion to her students, many of whom she kept tabs on through the years (including myself). She was always good for a hug and a broad smile and she managed to unscrew my head and pour knowledge into it, seemingly without effort.

When a teacher dies, there also passes not only the comfort of their presence in the world, but also the joy of their friendship. Teachers can have a massive impact on a child’s life, often becoming their students’ friend, confidant, adviser and force for helping their students mature. When a bond is forged between teachers and students, it is similar to a mentor and acolyte. A mentor is defined as one who provides direction for a younger person, pointing them straight and providing emotional support for the students’ choices.

One almost wishes every teacher could somehow write their own book, and provide copies to every one of their students, so that they can look back in years to come and take that wisdom to apply it when needed.

As it is, their wisdom is passed along in the hearts and memories of their students, if they are willing to remember and to listen. It is up to us to take their lessons and take them to heart in our lives.

LEONARD GRAY is assistant managing editor of L’Observateur.